Real Madrid Target Rodri as Kroos Replacement | OneFootball

Real Madrid Plot Midfield Reinvention Amid Rodri Links

Madrid’s Midfield Identity Crisis

Real Madrid find themselves at a crossroads. After crashing out of the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal—losing both legs in convincing fashion—Los Blancos are now on the brink of a trophyless campaign. The domestic picture doesn’t offer much solace either. Barcelona are in control of La Liga, and Madrid trail behind, second-best in a season where expectations have not been met.

Much of the scrutiny has centred on their midfield—a zone once orchestrated with elegance by Toni Kroos. Since the German’s retirement last summer, Real’s rhythm has been patchy, their link from defence to attack noticeably less fluid. Luka Modrić continues to offer flashes of brilliance, but at 38, the Croatian is no longer the metronome of seasons past.

Rodri Identified as Primary Target

In their search for a long-term solution, Real Madrid have reportedly fixed their gaze on Rodri. The Manchester City lynchpin is viewed by senior figures at the Santiago Bernabéu as the ideal candidate to fill the Kroos-shaped void. As reported by Cadena SER, Rodri is admired not only for his tactical intelligence but also his ability to control the tempo and dictate play—qualities Real currently lack.

Rodri, 28, has been pivotal for Pep Guardiola’s side, and his absence this season has been deeply felt. After suffering a cruciate ligament injury in September, City’s form faltered. They exited the Champions League prematurely—ironically to Real Madrid—and sit fourth in the Premier League, their title defence now a mathematical formality.

City’s Reluctance to Sell

Despite Real Madrid’s growing interest, any move for Rodri appears unlikely to materialise in the near term. The Spaniard is under contract at Manchester City until 2027, and sources close to the club suggest they had already been planning to offer him a new deal, extending potentially to 2030. That proposal was reportedly under discussion prior to his injury, a move designed in part to ward off interest from elite European clubs, including Madrid.

Rodri is said to be settled in Manchester, enjoying both the competitive environment and Guardiola’s coaching. At present, there is no indication that he is looking to force a move, and City remain confident he will continue to be a cornerstone of their next evolution.

Road to Recovery and Summer Return

There is, however, positive news regarding Rodri’s recovery. He has resumed light training and could be in contention for the FIFA Club World Cup this summer. His return is a much-needed boost for City as they prepare to reset and rebuild next season.

As for Real Madrid, the search for a Kroos successor continues. Rodri may well be the dream option, but as things stand, the dream seems out of reach.

“Rodri is currently fighting for his comeback and is already training with the team again. He could be back for the Club World Cup this summer, according to reports in England. He probably won’t play for Real after that…”